HOST Park's Cold Start Warm Finish Family Fun Run/Walk & Canicross
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HOST Park’s 2027 Cold Start Warm Finish Family Fun Run/Walk & Canicross
The Natural Energy Laboratory of Hawaii Authority presents a community run and canicross event at NELHA Beach Park in Kailua Kona on January 9, 2027. The event combines road and trail running along Makako Bay Drive and coastal trails fronting the Pacific Ocean.
Distances offered:
- 10k Run/Walk
- 5k Run/Walk
- 5k Canicross hands-free run with dog
- Keiki dash, free and unlimited
The course is an out-and-back route with some hills. Approximately 50% of the course is on paved road; the remainder is on gravel roads or sandy trails. Multiple aid stations will be available on course. HOST Park will provide optional cold seawater run-through showers at roughly 5°C (41°F), water feature arches, and cold and warm seawater foot plunges after the finish.
Registration opens August 22, 2026. Category limits are listed: 10k limited to 200 athletes, 5k limited to 250 athletes, 5k canicross limited to 50 athlete-and-dog teams, and a total athlete cap may apply. Registered participants receive a finisher sun hoodie and a 5k or 10k pin. A two hour time limit applies to race results.
Canicross entrants must use an approved hands-free setup with a Y chest band harness, bungee leash, and a human waist belt; one dog per runner is allowed. A no greet policy requires dogs to remain under handler control at all times. A Health and Wellness Fair is located near the start and finish with local vendors and a keiki bubble activity. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.